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Brain Tumors/brain tumor, long-term side effects

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Expert: - 11/18/2009


Question
Dear Dr Nordquist,
11-years-ago my sister has been diagnosed with the a tumor in the part of the brain called cerebellar vermis. The tumor has been removed in 95% surgically, and than she has received the treatment by irradiation of part of the brain and spinal cord. Nowadays, from time to time (once-twice a month) she is suffering from serious back-pain (spine) connected to abdominal pain, which usually lasts for few hours and is almost impossible to manage by casual painkillers. Is it possible that previous radiation could cause it; or can it be a sign of the tumor come-back???
Although recent scans seemed to be clean.
Another thing, it looks like she has impaired capability of memorizing things, multitasking and keeping the focus, can it be also related to the tumor or the treatment???

Thank you in advance for you questions
With kind regards

Agata Drewniak

Answer
It is possible in both cases but far from certain! I do suggest that she is checked by local doctors. Both a neurologist and an orthopedic surgeon should be included. Without examinations we can not come further. Good luck!

You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128  

Brain Tumors

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Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D.

Expertise

I`m a doctor of medicine and specialist in radiation therapy and medical oncology. I have a long time experience of these tumours.

Experience

I'm a Doctor of Medicine and specialist in Medical Oncology and Radiation Therapy, educated and trained in Sweden. Now retired. Background in Radiation Therapy, Medical Oncology, Radiation Protection, Nuclear Medicine, Diagnostic Radiology, Gynecological Oncology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Cytology,Hematology and Internal Medicine. M.D. from the faculty of medicine, Royal Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. Have also been an exchange student at the Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel. Former medical consultant, Swedish National Board of Radiation Protection. Former Police Surgeon and Medical Examiner, Stockholm Police Department. Former Chief Medical Officer, The Royal Guards, The Royal Horse Guards and the Royal Household Brigade, Royal Swedish Army Medical Corps. You can also reach me on: http://www.lifestylerescue.com/expert/health-fitness-advice/dr-claes-gustaf/128 . I have no restrictions on the number of questions there. I also answer questions about Oncology (General Cancer), General History, Military History, Breast Cancer, Colon Cancer.

Education/Credentials
Doctor of medicine, specialist in medical oncology & radiation therapy.

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